By Judy Lash
Hey, everyone! I’m super excited to share with you my tips on what to pack for a pontoon boat ride. Pontoon boats are awesome because they are spacious, comfortable, and perfect for relaxing on the water. But before you hop on board, you need to make sure you have everything you need for a fun and safe trip. Here are some of the essentials I always bring with me when I go on a pontoon boat ride.
– Sunscreen. This is a no-brainer, but you don’t want to get sunburned while enjoying the breeze and the views. Make sure you apply sunscreen generously and reapply every few hours, especially if you go swimming. I recommend using a waterproof and broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
– Water. Hydration is key, especially when you’re exposed to the sun and the wind. You don’t want to get dehydrated and feel dizzy or nauseous. Bring plenty of water bottles or a cooler with ice and drinks. Avoid alcohol, as it can dehydrate you even more and impair your judgment.
– Snacks. You’re going to get hungry after all that boating, so make sure you have some snacks to munch on. You can bring anything from sandwiches and salads to chips and cookies, depending on your preference. Just make sure they are easy to eat and store, and don’t attract bugs or animals.
– Life jackets. Safety first, folks. Even if you’re a good swimmer, you never know what can happen on the water. You might fall overboard, hit a wave, or encounter a strong current. That’s why it’s important to wear a life jacket at all times, or at least have one handy in case of emergency. Make sure the life jacket fits you well and is appropriate for your weight and size.
– Swim Suits – Depending on the time of year, you may come across a great place to beach the boat and take a swim. So don’t forget your swimsuit and towels.
– Fishing Gear – A must include for some and you know the equipment you’ll need to score big. Don’t forget your license, regulations, ruler, scale and filet knife.
– Music. What’s a pontoon boat ride without some tunes? Music can set the mood and make your trip more enjoyable. You can bring a portable speaker or use the boat’s stereo system, if it has one. Just make sure you don’t blast the music too loud, as it can disturb other boaters and wildlife. And of course, choose songs that everyone likes or take turns playing DJ.
– Games. If you want to spice up your pontoon boat ride, you can bring some games to play with your friends or family. You can play cards, board games, trivia, or even water games like squirt guns or water balloons. Just make sure the games are suitable for the boat and don’t involve anything sharp or heavy that could damage the boat or hurt someone.
– Navigation System – Can be a simple download of Navionics on your phone or tablet, but it is kind of a must have to know where you are going. Andy lives by this system on his tablet.
– Camera. Last but not least, don’t forget to capture the memories of your pontoon boat ride with a camera. You can use your phone, a digital camera, or even a GoPro if you want to record some action shots. You’ll want to look back at the photos and videos of your amazing trip and share them with others.
So there you have it, my tips on what to pack for a boating excursion. I hope this helps you prepare for your next adventure on the water. Have fun and stay safe!
